Tough paperboard at CES aims to crack shoplifting crime

Obvious security devices such as tags or locked cases have become part of the retail experience, but one company aims to bridge the gap between security and customer experience through the use of a tough paperboard packaging solution.

MeadWestvaco Corp. (MWV) will be demonstrating its new Security Carton at International CES (January 6-9). The Security Carton is essentially a customizable carton made from recyclable and responsibly sourced paperboard that provides brands with a printable space on which to display their message.

In a January 5 release MWV claims that the carton cannot be ripped open in-store due to "tear-resistant" technology but that it can be opened at home with scissors. MWV states that the Security Carton is designed to provide a better customer experience by allowing consumers access to the product on the shelf - unlike several current security measures. However this of course does not prevent a person from merely opening it with scissors in the shop.

"This packaging solution [Security Carton] offers both brand owners and retailers another option to securely merchandise their products while eliminating the additional costs associated with security devices," stated Jeff Kellogg, vice president of consumer electronics and security products for MWV.

The Security Carton is part of the Nantralock security package, which won a green award at the National Hardware Show in the US in 2008.

Other packaging exhibitors at CES include Shinly Plastics, Prodlink, iStyle Originals and Beone CNR Co.

International CES, in Las Vegas from January 6-9, is one of the biggest events on the tech agenda. The event is often used by companies as a launch pad for new products and attracts over 126,000 visitors each year. More information can be found at http://www.cesweb.org/